Kirkurd and Newlands Parish Church of Scotland

Our Local Community

The community of Lamancha, Newlands and Kirkurd nestles in the North Western part of Peeblesshire. It is a dispersed community, made up of a number of villages and settlements stretching along a ribbon of approximately 10 miles, following the route of the A701/A72. This section provides a community index for local residents, including links or contact information to other sources of information. There are a number of active community based organisations listed below. If you would like your voluntary or not-for-profit organisation listed here please use the form on the contact page.

Castlecraig Brownies

For ages between 7 and 10. Call Lynne Johannessen on 01721 752208 for more information

Castlecraig Hospital

Castle Craig is a residential rehab clinic that treats alcohol and drug addiction. The clinic and our Church have particularly strong ties. Patients from the clinic regularly join our congregation. Trusting in God helps patients battle their own personal addiction problems.

Covering Blyth Bridge and surrounding areas, the Kirkurd WRI meets regularly at Netherurd Hall. Being a member allows women of all ages the opportunity to learn new skills, participate in a wide range of activities and enjoy the friendship of others.

Lamancha Hub

Lamancha Hub is a bright, spacious, fully accessible community hall, garden and playground created by the renovation of the old school in Lamancha. It offers comfortable, flexible and economical venue space in a rural, yet accessible location available for private hire for classes, events, exhibitions and parties.

Newlands Centre is a modern community facility. The Centre provides flexible event, sport and social spaces for hire, including a general purpose hall, a smaller hall, an IT and learning centre, meeting & conferencing facilities, a library plus outdoor sports field and changing facilities. The Centre also includes a fully fitted kitchen suitable for larger events plus a smaller kitchen and servery.

The main role of the Community Council is to represent the local area, to consult with local residents and pass their views on to public sector organisations such as Scottish Borders Council, NHS Borders and the Scottish Executive.

The Church of Scotland Guild is one of Scotland's largest voluntary organisations. The Guild is about invitation, encouragement, commitment, and fellowship which leads to providing opportunities for continuing growth in Christian faith through worship, prayer and action. Contact Margaret Habeshaw on 01968 660887.

Newlands Womens’ Rural Institute

Covering Romanno Bridge and surrounding areas, the Newlands WRI meets regularly at Newlands Centre. Being a member allows women of all ages the opportunity to learn new skills, participate in a wide range of activities and enjoy the friendship of others.

Netherurd Memorial Hall

Provides the facilities for community members to participate in social and recreational activities. Netherurd Hall is a member of the Peeblesshire Federation of Village and Community Halls. Contact Margaret Adamson on 01721 752242.

Any queries please contact Peggy on 01968 682231 or Pat on 01721 75285?

Newlands & Kirkurd Playgroup

The playgroup and out of school club is based at Newlands Centre. It is run by local parents and has qualified staff working with the children to help them discover and develop new skills. The group enjoys a range of activities and outings.